Equity Bank Rwanda has called on stakeholders in the livestock value chain, including veterinarians, poultry farmers, agro-dealers, and agro-food processors, to explore its customized financial products designed to help grow their businesses. At a meeting held on November 29, over 40 stakeholders engaged with Equity Bank representatives to discuss ways to overcome sector challenges, promote savings, and expand business operations. ALSO READ: FEATURED: How Equity Bank is unlocking Rwanda’s agri-export potential Darius Clement Nkuriza, Food and Agriculture Manager at Equity Bank Rwanda PLC, highlighted the bank's ambition to boost its agricultural portfolio from the current 12% to 30% by 2030. “Only 4.7% of farmers and ranchers currently utilize bank products, primarily due to a lack of awareness. This is alarming, considering agriculture contributes 30% to Rwanda's economy and provides 70% of the country’s jobs. We aim to ensure agriculture actors are not left behind,” Nkuriza said. Equity Bank is addressing the gap between the financial and agricultural sectors by investing in specialized personnel with in-depth sector knowledge. This approach seeks to empower livestock stakeholders while addressing challenges within the value chain. ALSO READ: FEATURED: Equity Bank Rwanda deepens ties with Gicumbi farmers Alice Kirezi, Head of Investment and Social Impact at Equity Bank, urged stakeholders to adopt a growth-oriented mindset, emphasizing strategic decision-making and disciplined expansion. “We envision seeing you move from being small-scale operators to becoming investors,” Kirezi said. “We want you to expand, establish branches, and create jobs. Equity Bank is committed to walking with you every step of the way.” The bank also shared its growth story, from its humble beginnings as a small cooperative in Kenya to its current presence in multiple countries, encouraging participants to think big. Equity Bank outlined several products designed to meet the unique needs of the livestock sector, including bridging finance for exporters at a 12% interest rate to cover raw material costs and production processes. Women entrepreneurs benefit from loans with reduced collateral requirements, with the bank covering up to 75% of the collateral, and flexible repayment options, such as exemptions during maternity leave. Subsidized interest rates are also available to support business growth. ALSO READ: FEATURED: Equity Bank Rwanda celebrates Customer Service Week “These products address key barriers, such as high-interest rates and collateral requirements, which often deter small-scale farmers and women entrepreneurs from seeking loans,” Kirezi explained. Francoise Mupfasoni, a poultry farmer from Kayonza District, described the session as an eye-opener. “Even though I had an account with Equity Bank, I wasn’t aware of the opportunities available. Now I know when and how to utilize these products,” she said. Joselyne Ingabire, a pig breeder, shared similar sentiments. “Most of us fear taking loans because of collateral requirements, but I was relieved to learn about affordable options specifically designed for women like me,” she said. ALSO READ: Equity Bank Rwanda takes customer interaction campaign to Muhanga The importance of saving was another key focus of the discussions. Equity Bank emphasized that saving is not just a financial habit but a critical tool for managing risks, enabling expansion, and ensuring access to financial services. “Saving guarantees peace of mind in business,” Kirezi noted. “It prepares you for unforeseen risks and demonstrates financial discipline, which is essential for accessing loans and other financial support.” Equity Bank’s initiative is part of its commitment to strengthening Rwanda's agricultural sector. By addressing the specific needs of livestock chain actors, the bank aims to foster collaborations that elevate productivity and efficiency.
